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Helicobacter Pylori Infection, HP (Bacterial Infection of the Stomach with Helicobacter) in Dogs

Occurrence: common
Location of illness: Abdomen/pelvis

Author: Dr. med. vet. Gisa Löwe | Last modified: 06.11.2025

A Helicobacter pylori infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. in dogs is a bacterial infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. of the stomach caused by the bacterium Helicobacter pylori. This infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. can lead to inflammatory conditions in the stomach and impair digestion.

The most important facts at a glance

Helicobacter pylori is a bacterium that can infect the stomach of dogs and often survives in an acidic environment. This infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. is less researched in dogs than in humans, where it is associated with gastritis and stomach ulcers. In dogs, the routes of transmission are still unclear, but contaminatedContaminated describes something that has been polluted by harmful microorganisms, chemicals, or other dangerous substances. In veterinary medicine, this can affect food, water, toys, or the environment. food, water, or contact with infected animals could play a role. A weakened immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body., stressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being., and an unbalanced diet increase the risk of infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease.. Symptoms include vomiting, loss of appetite, abdominalThe term "abdominal" refers to anything that concerns the belly or the abdomen. It is an adjectival expression used to describe the location, symptoms, or conditions that occur in the abdominal area. pain, and diarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems.. A diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. often requires stomach biopsies, breath tests, or PCR tests.

Treatment usually involves antibiotics and medications to reduce stomach acid, often as triple therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. with two antibiotics and a proton pump inhibitor. The therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. usually lasts 10 to 14 days. Good hygiene, a balanced diet, and regular veterinary examinations help with preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring.. Current research focuses on the pathogenesisPathogenesis describes the process of the origin and development of a disease, including the mechanisms that lead to the disease's symptoms and signs. in dogs, genetic analyses of bacterial strains, and the development of better diagnostic tests. New treatment methods, such as probiotics and new antibiotics, are also being investigated. This research could also provide insights for human medicine.

Causes

Helicobacter pylori is a gram-negative, microaerophilic bacterium that can colonize the stomach of dogs. It is known for its ability to survive the acidic environment of the stomach, giving it a survival advantage over many other microorganisms. The bacterium’s ability to nest in the gastric mucosaMucosa, also called mucous membrane, refers to the moist lining of body cavities that are connected to the outside world, such as the mouth, nose, lungs, and gastrointestinal tract. It serves to protect and facilitate the absorption of nutrients. contributes to its pathogenicity.

H. pylori infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. is less well studied in dogs than in humans, where it is often associated with the development of gastritis, stomach ulcers, and even stomach cancerCancer refers to the uncontrolled proliferation of cells that can lead to tumors or spread throughout the body. Various types of cancer occur in dogs and cats, ranging from skin cancer to lymphomas.. In dogs, the exact route of transmission of the bacterium is still unclear, but it is believed that transmission can occur through contaminatedContaminated describes something that has been polluted by harmful microorganisms, chemicals, or other dangerous substances. In veterinary medicine, this can affect food, water, toys, or the environment. food or water, as well as through direct contact with infected animals.

The causes of an infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. can be varied and include both environmental factors and the general health of the dog. A weakened immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body., stressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being., and an unbalanced diet can increase susceptibility to infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease..

Symptoms

Very common symptoms:

Common symptoms:

Rare symptoms:

Lethargy

The symptoms of Helicobacter pylori infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. in dogs can be subtle and non-specific, making diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. difficult. The most common symptoms include vomiting, decreased appetite, weight loss, diarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems., and abdominalThe term “abdominal” refers to anything that concerns the belly or the abdomen. It is an adjectival expression used to describe the location, symptoms, or conditions that occur in the abdominal area. pain. Some dogs may also show signs of flatulence and discomfort.

In more severe cases or with persistentPersistent means lasting or continuing for an extended period. In veterinary medicine, it can refer to chronic diseases or symptoms that do not subside. infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease., chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. gastritis can occur, which can significantly affect the dog’s well-being. It is important to note that not all infected dogs show symptoms, which makes it difficult to identify and treat the infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. without targeted diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients..

Diagnosis

The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. of Helicobacter pylori infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. in dogs requires a combination of clinical examination, anamnesis, and specific diagnostic tests. A definitive diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. can often only be made by a stomach biopsy, in which tissue samples are taken from the gastric mucosaMucosa, also called mucous membrane, refers to the moist lining of body cavities that are connected to the outside world, such as the mouth, nose, lungs, and gastrointestinal tract. It serves to protect and facilitate the absorption of nutrients. and examined for the presence of H. pylori.

In addition, non-invasive tests such as the breath test, in which the dog takes a special substance and the exhaled air metabolism is analyzed, can be used. Serological tests that look for antibodies against the bacterium are also available, but their reliability may vary.

Another approach is the use of PCR tests (polymerase chain reaction), which can detect genetic material from H. pylori in the stomach contents or in biopsyA biopsy is a medical procedure in which a small amount of tissue is removed from the body to be examined under a microscope for signs of disease. Biopsies can help diagnose cancer and other conditions. samples. These tests are very sensitive and specific and can help confirm the diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients..

Therapy

Treatment of Helicobacter pylori infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. in dogs typically consists of a combination of antibiotics and medications to reduce stomach acid production. A commonly used therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. is the so-called triple therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions., which consists of two antibiotics (e.g., amoxicillin and clarithromycin) and a proton pump inhibitor (e.g., omeprazole).

The duration of treatment is usually 10 to 14 days, but the exact duration may vary depending on the severity of the infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. and the dog’s response to therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions.. It is important to complete the full course of antibiotics to ensure complete eradication of the bacterium and prevent the development of resistantResistant means being insensitive to a substance, drug, or treatment. In dogs and cats, resistance can refer to the ineffectiveness of antibiotics against certain bacterial strains or the insensitivity of parasites to certain pesticides. bacterial strains.

In addition to drug treatment, supportiveSupportive refers to supportive treatments that aim to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life without directly treating the underlying cause of the disease. therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. with a special diet can help protect the gastric mucosaMucosa, also called mucous membrane, refers to the moist lining of body cavities that are connected to the outside world, such as the mouth, nose, lungs, and gastrointestinal tract. It serves to protect and facilitate the absorption of nutrients. and promote healing. Regular follow-up examinations are important to monitor the success of the treatment and detect possible relapses early.

Prognosis and follow-up care

The prognosis for dogs with Helicobacter pylori infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. is generally good, especially if the infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. is detected and treated early. Most dogs respond well to therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. and show a significant improvement in symptoms after completion of treatment.

In some cases, however, relapses can occur, especially if the therapy was not completed fully or the dog continues to be exposed to risk factors. Regular monitoring and, if necessary, repeated therapy may be required to prevent re-infection.

Prevention

The preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. of Helicobacter pylori infections in dogs focuses on general hygiene measures and reducing the risk of transmission. This includes providing clean, fresh water and high-quality food, as well as avoiding contact with potentially infected animals.

A regular veterinary examination can help to detect early signs of infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. and treat them in time. It is also important to minimize stressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being. for the dog and support a healthy immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body. through a balanced diet and regular exercise.

Although there is currently no vaccineA vaccine is a substance that stimulates the immune system to develop immunity against specific pathogens without causing the disease itself. Vaccines may contain weakened or inactivated pathogens, toxoids, or recombinant antigens. against Helicobacter pylori in dogs, future research in this area could offer new preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. strategies. Until then, maintaining good general health and hygiene remains the best approach to preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring..

Outlook on current research

Helicobacter pylori infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. in dogs is a topic that is becoming increasingly important in veterinary medical research. While Helicobacter pylori is well studied in humans and mainly associated with stomach ulcers and gastritis, the understanding of this infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. in dogs is still developing. Researchers are focusing on understanding the pathogenesisPathogenesis describes the process of the origin and development of a disease, including the mechanisms that lead to the disease's symptoms and signs. of the infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. in dogs to better determine how the bacterium behaves in the animals’ gastrointestinalGastrointestinal refers to the gastrointestinal tract, a system that extends from the oral cavity to the anus and is responsible for the digestion of food and the absorption of nutrients. tract and what specific health problems it can cause.

Another area of current research is dedicated to the genetic analysis of Helicobacter strains found in dogs. It is being investigated whether these strains have unique properties that distinguish them from the human variants. This could mean that dogs may show different symptoms or disease courses than humans. Such findings could help to develop more targeted treatment methods.

In addition, researchers are interested in better understanding the transmission routes of the bacterium between dogs and between dogs and humans. While there is evidence that zoonotic transmission is possible, the exact mechanisms are still unclear. Studies focusing on the environmental factors and living conditions of dogs could provide new insights into the preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. of infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease..

Another aspect of the research is the development and improvement of diagnostic tests that enable early and accurate detection of the infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. in dogs. Traditional methods such as endoscopyEndoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that uses an endoscope (a thin, flexible tube with a light source and a camera at the end) to examine and visualize the inside of the body, often for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes. are invasiveInvasive describes medical procedures or pathogens that enter the body or penetrate tissue. In medicine, invasive procedures can range from minimally invasive techniques to open surgery. and often require sedationSedation refers to the state of calming or suppressing the central nervous system with medication, which reduces anxiety and irritability and sometimes induces a light sleep.. Therefore, work is being done on non-invasive tests, such as breath or stool tests, which could represent a more comfortable alternative.

Regarding treatment, new antibiotic regimens and probiotics are being investigated to increase the effectiveness of the therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. while minimizing side effects. Since antibiotic resistanceResistance refers to the ability of microorganisms to withstand the effects of antibiotics, antifungals, or other antimicrobial drugs. Resistance can also refer to the body's ability to be insensitive to diseases or toxins. is also proving to be a problem in animal patients, this area of research is of crucial importance.

In conclusion, it should be mentioned that the research on Helicobacter pylori infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. in dogs could also allow conclusions to be drawn for human medicine, especially with regard to the development of vaccines and the research on host-microbe interactions.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What causes Helicobacter pylori infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. in dogs? Helicobacter pylori infections in dogs are caused by the bacterium Helicobacter pylori. This bacterium can colonize the gastric mucosaMucosa, also called mucous membrane, refers to the moist lining of body cavities that are connected to the outside world, such as the mouth, nose, lungs, and gastrointestinal tract. It serves to protect and facilitate the absorption of nutrients. and lead to inflammatory conditions. How exactly dogs become infected is still the subject of research, but it is believed that transmission occurs through contaminatedContaminated describes something that has been polluted by harmful microorganisms, chemicals, or other dangerous substances. In veterinary medicine, this can affect food, water, toys, or the environment. food, water, or direct contact.
What symptoms does a dog show with a Helicobacter pylori infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease.? The symptoms can vary, but common signs are vomiting, diarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems., loss of appetite, weight loss, and abdominalThe term "abdominal" refers to anything that concerns the belly or the abdomen. It is an adjectival expression used to describe the location, symptoms, or conditions that occur in the abdominal area. pain. However, some dogs show no obvious symptoms, which can make diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. difficult.
How is Helicobacter pylori infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. diagnosed in dogs? The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. is usually made through a combination of clinical symptoms, endoscopyEndoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that uses an endoscope (a thin, flexible tube with a light source and a camera at the end) to examine and visualize the inside of the body, often for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes., biopsyA biopsy is a medical procedure in which a small amount of tissue is removed from the body to be examined under a microscope for signs of disease. Biopsies can help diagnose cancer and other conditions., and microbiological tests. Research is also being conducted on non-invasive tests that could enable easier diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. in the future.
Can humans be infected by infected dogs? There is evidence that zoonotic transmission is possible, but the exact mechanisms are still unclear. Research on this is ongoing, and dog owners should pay attention to hygiene and precautions to minimize the risk.
How is Helicobacter pylori infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. treated in dogs? Treatment usually involves a course of antibiotics, often combined with medications that reduce stomach acid production. In some cases, probiotics may be recommended to support gastrointestinalGastrointestinal refers to the gastrointestinal tract, a system that extends from the oral cavity to the anus and is responsible for the digestion of food and the absorption of nutrients. health.
Can the disease become chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. in dogs? Yes, if the infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. is not treated properly, it can become chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. and lead to long-term health problems, such as chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. gastritis or stomach ulcers.
Is there a preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. against Helicobacter pylori infections in dogs? There is currently no specific preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring.. However, general hygiene measures, such as avoiding contaminatedContaminated describes something that has been polluted by harmful microorganisms, chemicals, or other dangerous substances. In veterinary medicine, this can affect food, water, toys, or the environment. food and water, as well as regular veterinary examinations, can help to reduce the risk of infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease..
Does diet affect the risk of infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease.? A balanced and hygienic diet can help reduce the risk of infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease.. Avoid giving your dog raw meat or contaminatedContaminated describes something that has been polluted by harmful microorganisms, chemicals, or other dangerous substances. In veterinary medicine, this can affect food, water, toys, or the environment. water, as these can be potential sources of infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease..
Are certain dog breeds more susceptible to Helicobacter pylori infections? Currently, there is no clear evidence that certain breeds are more susceptible. However, susceptibility may depend on individual factors such as the immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body. and general health.
What is the prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. for dogs with Helicobacter pylori infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease.? The prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. is usually good if the infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. is diagnosed and treated early. However, chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. or untreated cases can lead to complications that can impair the dog’s quality of life.

You can find an interesting overview of gastrointestinalGastrointestinal refers to the gastrointestinal tract, a system that extends from the oral cavity to the anus and is responsible for the digestion of food and the absorption of nutrients. problems in dogs, supplemented with information on the intestinalIntestinal refers to the intestine, the part of the digestive tract that extends from the stomach to the anus. Intestinal diseases affect the small and/or large intestine. microbiome and the importance of probiotics, here: https://petsvetcheck.de/fachbeitrag/magen-darm-probleme-beim-hund/